Breast cancer is a malignant tumour that originates in the breast. Over time, this tumour can spread to other parts of the body. Women over the age of 50 are particularly at risk of developing breast cancer.

What is breast cancer?

The body consists of millions of cells. Changes in cells can cause them to grow too fast and damage the body. That is what we call cancer.

There are various types of cancer. The most common cancer in women is breast cancer. At first, breast cancer can grow without you noticing. Breast cancer may grow slowly or rapidly. It is different for everyone. Breast cancer is a serious disease that can kill people. If the disease is discovered on time, it can usually be cured.

Visit your GP with any symptoms or changes to your breast(s)

If you have any symptoms or changes that may indicate breast cancer, always see your GP. Do not wait for the invitation from the National Programme for Breast Cancer Screening. Do not make an appointment or participate in the population screening. You should immediately make an appointment with your GP.  

  • Below are examples of these symptoms and changes:
  • You feel a lump, swelling or hardening in your breast.
  • You see or feel a bump on your breast.
  • There are dents or hollows in your breast.
  • The skin on your breast is dimpled and looks like orange peel.
  • You have a wound on your breast that is not healing well.
  • You have redness, flaky skin or a nipple turning inside out.
  • Blood or fluid comes out of a nipple.
  • You feel a swelling in your armpit.
  • Your breast feels different from usual.
  • The size or shape of your breast changes.

If you have symptoms after taking part in the population screening, you should also go to see your GP.

Learn more about breast cancer